Tails 1.8 Just Released: New Version Of Edward Snowden’s Favorite Linux OS

Short Bytes: A Tails live-USB is like a security-focused computer in a tiny box. Edward Snowden used the same OS for keeping his communications out of the prying eyes of NSA. The development team behind this security-focused OS has just announced the release of Tails 1.8 with new features.

While talking about a better alternative to Tor anonymity software, Tails or The Amnesic Incognito Live System, frequently earns an honorable mention. But, it goes without saying that Tails is a complete Linux distribution, whereas Tor is a just a software suit for establishing secure connections.

This system is booted as a live USB or live DVD, and leaves no digital footprint on the system. In the past, Tails came into the limelight when it was used by Edward Snowden to keep himself hidden. In the latest news, the development team behind this security-focused OS has announced the release of Tails 1.8 with new features.

Tails is based on Debian’s latest stable release. The main change in the version 1.8 is the switch to Icedove open source software as the default email client. This rebranded version of Mozilla Thunderbird will be replacing Claws Mail.

The OS also features the updated version of Tor browser and other packages.

Take a look at the complete list of changes and upgrades as mentioned on the Tails’ website:

Electrum from 1.9.8 to 2.5.4. Now Electrum should work again in Tails.

Tor Browser to 5.0.5.

Tor to 0.2.7.6.

I2P to 0.9.23.

Icedove from 31.8 to 38.4.

Enigmail from 1.7.2 to 1.8.2.

The next release of Tails OS is slated for release on January 26. To download Tails or upgrade the existing OS, visit the link below: